Heavy rain and dust storm leave 33 dead across Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI: At least 33 people were killed across five districts of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday after a powerful storm accompanied by heavy rain caused widespread destruction, officials told news agency PTI.Taking stock of the damage, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath ordered immediate relief measures and compensation for affected families. He directed district authorities to complete assistance work within 24 hours and asked officials to remain on alert amid continuing weather concerns.The state government has also ordered surveys to assess damage to crops, livestock and homes caused by the unseasonal weather.According to officials, Bhadohi recorded the highest number of deaths at 16, followed by nine in Fatehpur and five in Budaun. Two people were killed in Chandauli, while one death was reported from Sonbhadra. Many others suffered injuries in separate storm-related incidents.The sudden weather change disrupted communication and rescue efforts in some districts. In Bhadohi, officials said mobile services were affected after strong winds uprooted electricity poles and damaged infrastructure. Emergency teams, police personnel and local administrators were sent to affected villages to clear debris and assist residents.Several deaths were caused by collapsing walls and falling trees as people attempted to shelter from the storm. In Budaun, two young girls died after the wall of a mud hut gave way during intense winds and rain. In another incident in the district, a woman lost her life when a tree crashed onto a small structure where villagers had gathered for safety. A truck driver and a young man travelling to deliver food were also killed after trees fell on them.In Fatehpur, officials said most casualties were reported from Khaga tehsil, where multiple structures collapsed during the storm. At least 16 people were injured in the district.